The Springfield/Clark County Safety Council (SCCSC) conducted its' first forklift rodeo in 1994 as a modest, county-wide event. Four years later the Ohio Division of Safety & Hygiene incorporated the event into its' annual Ohio Safety Congress & Expo. Under its' own momentum and with national, and even international attention the event has come to be known as the
U.S. Open Forklift Rodeo, a "National Championship event!" At the same time we are maintaining the ability to crown an Ohio Championship team & individual Top Gun Operator.
 2008 US Open Rodeo - Four Square Champion - Andrew Skaggs of Ohio Stamping &Machine, Inc., Springfield, OH. |
Recently the forklift rodeo concept has attracted international interest starting with "Springfield style" events conducted in Lisbon, Portugal (April 09) and West Friendship, Maryland (18 July 09). Another is in the making in the United Kingdom. All will be represented at the 2009 U.S. Open! The championship teams of both the Portugal and Maryland events will participate in the October 30-31, 2009 U.S. Open Forklift Rodeo & Safety Expo at the Clark County Fairgrounds, Springfield, Ohio. Invitations have been extended & accepted.
All this time we have developed many outstanding, competitive, championship level operators, especially those Master division qualified! And, the Championship, less experienced operators have their own competitive division in which to learn, enjoy & flex their pride. The event continues to feature two-person teams & every operator is in the running for individual "Top Gun" recognition to include cash prizes and more. The "Top Gun" has the potential to take home $750 in addition to the traditional trophy!
For more details see the enclosed 3-fold brochure & please visit the
U.S. Open Forklift Rodeo & Safety Expo website via
www.higginsgroupinc.com to register, or call The Higgins Group, Inc. (rodeo facilitator) 937.325.7858 or email
dick.higginsgroup@yahoo.com for any information you need answered.
 2008 US Open Rodeo - Shootout Champion, Chris Johnson, M&M Restaurant Supply, Springfield Ohio. |
There is information on the website regarding team registration, event sponsorships, Safety Expo vendors, lodging, video & scenes from previous events & much more. You can actually register on the website! Once a team registers we will forward the traditional Team Handbook that will enable you to prepare for this challenging, educational, fun event.
Finally, we are pleased to announce the expansion of the "Safety Expo" feature which will include safety related vendor activities for both adults & youth. Count on a busy, interesting time while attending to watch the Rodeo competition. So, "pony up," sign up & plan to route for your operator / team & enjoy the experience!
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